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Acupuncture for the Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Patients with Stage I-III Breast Cancer

Trial Status: closed to accrual

This phase II trial evaluates the impact of acupuncture in preventing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) in patients with stage I-III breast cancer patients without pre-existing neuropathy who are undergoing taxane-based chemotherapy. Taxane is a type of chemotherapy that can cause damage to the nerves in the hands and feet as a potential side effect. CIPN, a side effect of taxane chemotherapy that causes pain, numbness, tingling, swelling, or muscle weakness mostly in the hands or feet. There are currently no proven treatments to prevent chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. Acupuncture is a complementary therapy in which, thin, sterile disposable needles are inserted into various spots on the skin. Acupuncture may help relieve pain from peripheral neuropathy caused by chemotherapy and may improve the quality of life of patients with breast cancer.